H90.7
Mixed conductive and sensorineural hearing loss, unilateral with unrestricted hearing on the contralateral side
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Medical Intelligence & Overview
Unilateral mixed hearing loss, classified under ICD-10 code H90.7, refers to a condition where hearing impairment occurs in one ear due to both conductive and sensorineural issues. This type of hearing loss affects one side of the head while the other ear maintains normal hearing capabilities. Recognizing the symptoms and understanding potential causes are essential steps toward managing this condition effectively. Despite the hearing loss on one side, the unaffected ear remains capable of hearing normally, providing some auditory function while highlighting the importance of diagnosis and possible treatment options.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Chronic ear infections leading to cartilage or bone damage Ear trauma or injury affecting the middle or inner ear Congenital abnormalities affecting ear development Exposure to loud noises causing damage to inner ear structures Otosclerosis, leading to abnormal bone growth in the middle ear Age-related deterioration of inner ear components Tumors or growths impacting ear structures Previous ear surgeries or medical procedures
Key Symptoms: Difficulty hearing in one ear Muffling or occlusion feeling in the affected ear Reduced speech clarity when listening through the affected ear Perception of ringing (tinnitus) in the affected ear Balance issues or dizziness in some cases A feeling of fullness or pressure in the affected ear
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Diagnosing mixed conductive and sensorineural hearing loss involves a comprehensive audiological assessment. The process includes hearing tests such as pure-tone audiometry to measure hearing sensitivity across frequencies. Tympanometry may be used to evaluate middle ear function, identifying conductive components. Additionally, related examinations like otoacoustic emissions and auditory brainstem response tests can help delineate sensorineural damage. Imaging studies, such as CT scans or MRI, may be necessary to visualize ear structures and identify any underlying abnormalities or growths.
Treatment Protocols: Management of unilateral mixed hearing loss varies based on the underlying cause and severity. Possible interventions include:
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is H90.7 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, H90.7 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report H90.7?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Mixed conductive and sensorineural hearing loss, unilateral with unrestricted hearing on the contralateral side and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
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